Mary Gotcher, FNPDirector of Nursing

Mary Gotcher received her Associate Degree in Nursing in 1977 from Galveston College. She achieved her baccalaureate degree in 1990 from The University of Texas Medical Branch. In 1993, she advanced her nursing degree to a Masters of Science in Nursing with a focus on nursing administration from UTMB. Her post-graduate degree and national certification as a family nurse practitioner were completed in 1998. Ms. Gotcher worked as a home health nurse while completing her post-graduate work.

Ms. Gotcher began her career as a registered nurse at Brazosport Memorial Hospital in Freeport, Texas. She worked in multiple departments including Med-Surg, ICU, Recovery Room, L&D/Nursery and House Supervisor. Additionally, her experience at Brazosport Memorial Hospital included utilization review and case management.

In 1993, Gotcher accepted employment with The University of Texas Medical Branch as a nurse manager of the urology and ENT floors. She quickly moved to a role of nurse manager of the surgical ICU's. In 1999, she joined UTMB-Correctional Managed Care as a nurse practitioner at the Coffield Facility. Prior to her present role as northern division director of nursing, Ms. Gotcher served in the role of northern region nurse manager.

Ms. Gotcher's experiences include providing educational classes for her nursing peers in EKG Interpretation, CCRN Review and Physical Assessment for the ICU Nurse. Her varied roles in nursing have provided an understanding and knowledge of all levels of nursing practice.

Ms. Gotcher and her husband, John, reside on a 75-acre ranch in Palestine Texas. Their daughter Angela lives in Dallas, Texas. They enjoy spending time outdoors with the ranch activities.